Brooks to D-league

Rockets rookie point guard Aaron Brooks will be assigned to the team's NBA Development League affiliate today in an effort to get him playing time he has not received so far with the Rockets.

Brooks has played four minutes, getting into two of the season's first 19 games.

"We strongly believe players improve by playing," general manager Daryl Morey said. "The stretch here has four games in seven days and with all our guards healthy, it's unlikely that Aaron would have been active. We feel the D-league is best for him.

"With both Steve (Novak) and Aaron, we're going to re-evaluate in mid-December. There's a break in the D-League schedule (Dec. 23-27), when they have a bunch of days without a game. We told both players we'll evaluate where the NBA club is playing-wise and health-wise and have constant evaluation with both players."

Novak has averaged 17 points on 40 percent shooting and a team-high 6.2 rebounds with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Like Novak, Brooks said he was eager to get a chance to play.

"It will be good to get out and play some games," Brooks said. "With the season we've got going, you don't really get a chance to get out and play. It's more of practice and walk-through.

Assistant on leave

Rockets assistant coach and advance scout R.J. Adelman, the son of head coach Rick Adelman was charged with driving under the influence Nov. 19 and has been on leave of absence while seeking help, the Rockets announced Wednesday.

R.J. Adelman was stopped for speeding and given a breathalyzer and field sobriety test.

"Our concern is for R.J.'s well-being during this very challenging personal time," general manager Daryl Morey said in a statement. "We are grateful that nobody was injured. R.J. has taken a leave of absence from the team in order to seek professional assistance. Out of respect for him and his family, we will refrain from future public comments regarding his situation."